Dogs Seized In Suspected Fighting Operation

KALAMAZOO TWP. (WWJ/AP) - Authorities say they've seized more than 40 dogs as part of an investigation into a suspected fighting operation in southwestern Michigan.

MLive.com reports a man was arrested Friday on suspicion of dogfighting after about 30 dogs were seized from a home in Kalamazoo County's Oshtemo Township. TV stations WOOD and WZZM report another 14 dogs were taken Monday from a home in nearby Kalamazoo Township.

Authorities said the Kalamazoo Township home had been under surveillance for several months and a fighting area with dried blood was found at the scene.

Kalamazoo County prosecutors said 51-year-old Kelvin Eric Thomas was charged with multiple felonies including one count each of possessing, buying or selling an animal for fighting, permitting the use of a building or premises for animal fighting, possession of equipment used in animal fighting, breeding and/or training of animals used in fighting, and gun charges.

He remained jailed Monday on a $5,000 cash/surety bond.

Prosecutors said they expect to charge several more people in connection with the case.

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